BUZZY IS BACK
by Rev. John Cloherty, R'54
 
On the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Mother, September 8, 1948, seventy-two teenagers entered St. Joseph's College as Sixth Latiners. These young men came to St. Joe's to begin their 12 year journey to priesthood. Patrick H. Curran, nicknamed "Buzzy," from St. James' Parish in San Francisco, was one of the seventy-two. He was joined by such personalities as Atondo, Breen, Cloherty, Collins, Driscoll, Fitzgerald, Gaffey, Horan, Kelly, Kennedy, McAuliffe, O'Connor, Persano, Re, Sabog, Sarubbi and Skillin.
 
After six years in the seminary, Pat changed course and began work in the electronics industry. He first attended City College in San Francisco, followed by law school, and then began a career in Stockton working for San Joaquin County. While in Stockton, he married Hedwidge, and together they raised four children: Steve, Bill, Denice and Sylvie. After his wife's death, Patrick once again responded to God's call and entered St. Patrick's Seminary to resume the journey that began in 1948.
 
Saturday, January 27, 2001 became a glorious day for the Church when Patrick "Buzzy" Curran was ordained a transitory deacon by Bishop Daniel Walsh, R'57. Sharing in the joy of the day was his mother and four children.
 
At age 67, Patrick will be ordained a priest at the Cathedral of the Annunciation on June 9, 2001. His First Mass will be the next day at his home parish, Church of the Presentation, in Stockton, CA.
 
Spring 2001 Newsletter